Marine Science Center
An inspiring marine sanctuary focused on rehabilitation and education, featuring interactive exhibits and rescued animals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Marine Science Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An inspiring marine sanctuary focused on rehabilitation and education, featuring interactive exhibits and rescued animals.
"Inspiring and educational! A gem for families, sparking conversations and staying with you."
🎯 Arrive Early for Less Crowds
Beat the rush by arriving right at opening, especially on weekends. More time for exhibits and interactions!
🤝 Support Conservation Efforts
Your admission helps fund the rehabilitation of injured animals. Learn about their stories and the center's vital work.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital
Inside the center
Witness firsthand the care and recovery of injured sea turtles. A truly inspiring look at conservation in action.
Interactive Touch Tanks
Main exhibit area
Get hands-on with marine life! Feed stingrays and discover the wonders of the ocean up close.
Raptor Bird Sanctuary
Outdoor exhibits
Meet rescued birds of prey like eagles and hawks. Learn about their stories and the importance of avian conservation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Smoother Visit
Embrace the Conservation Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Less Crowds
Beat the rush by arriving right at opening, especially on weekends. More time for exhibits and interactions!
🤝 Support Conservation Efforts
Your admission helps fund the rehabilitation of injured animals. Learn about their stories and the center's vital work.
✋ Hands-On Fun in Touch Tanks
Don't miss the chance to feed stingrays and touch other marine creatures. A highlight for all ages!
🦉 Meet Rescued Birds of Prey
The raptor sanctuary offers a unique look at eagles, hawks, and owls. Staff are very knowledgeable!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Less Crowds
Beat the rush by arriving right at opening, especially on weekends. More time for exhibits and interactions!
🤝 Support Conservation Efforts
Your admission helps fund the rehabilitation of injured animals. Learn about their stories and the center's vital work.
✋ Hands-On Fun in Touch Tanks
Don't miss the chance to feed stingrays and touch other marine creatures. A highlight for all ages!
🦉 Meet Rescued Birds of Prey
The raptor sanctuary offers a unique look at eagles, hawks, and owls. Staff are very knowledgeable!
🐢 See Turtles in Rehab
Observe the sea turtle hospital and learn about their recovery journeys. Inspiring conservation in action.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Marine Science Center for its inspiring and educational experience, particularly highlighting the sea turtle rehabilitation and interactive touch tanks. The knowledgeable staff and the center's conservation mission are frequently commended, making it a worthwhile and engaging visit for all ages.
"Inspiring and educational!
The Marine Science Center is a gem for families. We loved feeding the stingrays, but what stood out most was seeing the sea turtle rehab area and knowing real conservation work is happening here. Meeting a rescued owl and hearing its story made the visit even more meaningful. This is the kind of stop that sparks conversations and stays with you."
Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz
"Such a cute, inexpensive activity to do for all ages. During our visit here today, we fed stingrays, listened to a talk about their resident pine snake with a chance to pet him at the end of the talk, walked through the raptor bird exhibit, and spent some time learning about the turtles currently staying in the turtle hospital. The staff really care about the animals they care for. A fun and low-key way to spend an afternoon!"
Elizabeth Vazquez
"The grandkids and I did a stay-cation this week and this was one of our activities. The renovations are great! The kids had a great time. Stingray pool was fun for the kids! The bird sanctuary was very informative with interactive questions and information. Highly recommend!"
Lynn Ellis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marine Science Center is located in Ponce Inlet, near Daytona Beach. It's easily accessible by car. Parking is available, though it can fill up on busy days.
Public transportation options may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the center.
Parking is available at the center. On weekends and during peak season, it's advisable to arrive early as parking can become limited.
Yes! Many visitors combine a trip to the Marine Science Center with the nearby Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and Park for a full day of exploration.
The center is generally accessible, with paved pathways and ramps. It's designed to accommodate visitors of all mobility levels.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is generally inexpensive, offering great value for the experience. Check their official website for the most current pricing details.
The center is typically open Tuesday through Sunday. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Advance booking is usually not required, but it's recommended to check their website, especially during peak seasons or for special events.
Information on discounts for seniors, children, or groups is usually available on their website. It's worth checking for any available promotions.
Refund policies can vary. It's best to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the center directly for specific inquiries.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the sea turtle rehabilitation hospital, interactive touch tanks with stingrays, and the raptor bird sanctuary featuring rescued eagles and hawks. +1
Yes, the center often hosts talks and feeding demonstrations, particularly for the stingrays and birds. Check their schedule upon arrival for timings.
You can touch and feed stingrays in the designated touch tanks. Always follow staff instructions for safe and respectful interaction. +1
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for families with young children, offering interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and engaging displays. +1
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits, but you could easily stay longer if you engage with all the talks and interactive elements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The center may have limited snack options or a small cafe. It's often recommended to bring your own snacks or plan to dine nearby.
Outside food and drinks are usually permitted in designated areas. Check their policy upon arrival to ensure compliance.
Yes, the surrounding Ponce Inlet and Daytona Beach areas offer a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to seafood restaurants.
Given the coastal location, seafood restaurants are a popular choice. You'll find options to suit various tastes and budgets.
There might be designated picnic areas. It's best to inquire at the information desk upon arrival about where you can enjoy your own food.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals.
Capture memorable shots at the touch tanks, with the sea turtles, or in front of the vibrant exhibits. The bird sanctuary also offers unique photo opportunities.
Tripods and professional equipment may require special permission. It's advisable to check the center's photography policy beforehand.
Similar to photography, filming for personal use is usually permitted. Commercial filming may require prior authorization.
Visitors often share photos of the stingrays, sea turtles, rescued birds, and the interactive exhibits, highlighting the educational and conservation aspects. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the raptor bird sanctuary, where kids can see impressive birds of prey and learn fascinating facts from knowledgeable staff.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and drinks to save on food costs, as dining options within the center may be limited.
🌍 Eco-Conscious Visitors
Engage with the knowledgeable staff and volunteers to deepen your understanding of marine conservation issues. Your visit not only provides an educational experience but also financially supports these critical rehabilitation programs, making it a trip that aligns with your values.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation and Rehabilitation Efforts
Visitors can witness this vital conservation work firsthand by visiting the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital. Here, you can observe the turtles undergoing care, learn about their individual stories, and understand the threats they face in the wild, such as fishing hook entanglements.The center's dedication extends to other species as well. The raptor bird sanctuary houses rescued eagles, hawks, and falcons, providing them with a safe haven and a chance for recovery. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers are often on hand to share insights into each bird's unique history and the importance of protecting avian wildlife. This focus on rehabilitation and education makes the Marine Science Center an inspiring destination for those interested in animal welfare and environmental stewardship.
By visiting, you directly contribute to these conservation efforts. Your admission fees help fund the medical supplies, specialized care, and dedicated staff required to give these animals a second chance at life in the wild. It's a powerful reminder that even small actions can have a significant impact on protecting our planet's biodiversity.
Interactive Learning for All Ages
Beyond the touch tanks, the center offers engaging exhibits designed to educate and entertain. Visitors can learn about local marine habitats, the research conducted at the center, and the diverse species that inhabit the waters. Informative talks by staff and volunteers further enhance the learning experience, offering deeper insights into the animals and their ecosystems.
The renovations have further enhanced the visitor experience, making the exhibits more dynamic and informative.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit